Yankees Reliever Appears Headed for DL

Published 7:00 pm, Monday, March 17, 2003

New York Yankees reliever Steve Karsay appears likely to start the season on the disabled list because right shoulder soreness.

Karsay has pitched just twice this spring. He experienced discomfort Monday, one day after throwing a scoreless inning against Houston. On Tuesday, he said the odds are against being ready for opener on March 31 at Toronto.

"Reality _ probably not," Karsay said. "Am I hopeful in two or three days this will go away? Absolutely. If it's going to take a few extra days, that's what it's going to be."

Karsay underwent an MRI on Monday. The results were not immediately available.

"If he has to be shut down for any period of time, then you're certainly at a point where you can't count on him for opening day," Yankees manager Joe Torre said.

Karsay isn't frustrated.

"I'm not ready to pitch," Karsay said. "Believe me, I want to be out there. When your body tells you something, you have to listen."

Juan Acevedo would likely take Karsay's spot on the roster, combing with Antonio Osuna as New York's right-handed setup men for Mariano Rivera.

Meanwhile, Chris Hammond threw in a bullpen for 10 minutes and is scheduled to pitch Friday against Pittsburgh. The left-hander has been slowed by discomfort behind his throwing shoulder.

"It felt good," he said. "I had to act like I was going into a game so I'll be ready for a game."

Hammond, signed during the offseason to replace Mike Stanton, expects to be ready for opening day.

"My arm was in shape before this happened," Hammond said. "I just need to get my location down."